Page 41 of Wicked Rush

Chapter Twelve

As they pulled up the long winding driveway in Lars’ Aston Martin, Braelynn tugged nervously at the hem of her skirt. She ran her palm over the car’s black leather seats, unable to conceive of how much it cost. She glanced to Lars, wondering how someone so affluent remained entirely down to earth. A living contradiction, he looked sexier than ever in his well-worn jeans. His white cotton polo with rolled-up sleeves accentuated his tanned skin. Unpretentious, he spoke directly, and she could tell from the short time they’d been together that he did most things himself. From cooking breakfast to drying her clothes, he didn’t rely on staff for everyday chores. He’d even dug a hole in his yard, burying Benny with respect, holding her while she’d mourned.

He gave her a sexy smile, and quickly focused back on the road. Her thoughts turned to the barbeque. She wondered why he’d decided to bring her, knowing she’d be gone by Monday. He could have easily canceled his plans, keeping her out of sight. Despite her lack of transparency, he’d insisted on her meeting his closest friends. She’d been afraid to ask if Garrett was going to be at the party, praying she didn’t have to see him. He’d texted her several times, and she’d reported briefly that she had the key, without making mention of being caught or her involvement with Lars.

She reflected on the redhead who clearly had dated Lars. Braelynn cringed at her jealousy. She told herself it hardly mattered, given that she was leaving. She had no right to claim Lars, yet at the time she’d done exactly that. While he hadn’t stopped her from doing so, he’d been quick to point to the reality of the situation. They’d be lovers, but only for a weekend.

As the car slowed, Braelynn’s attention was drawn to a large rectangular fountain. Streams of illuminated water shot high into the sky, their prismatic display of colors dancing to the beat of a bass pounding in the distance. She caught sight of an enormous building that appeared to be under construction. Staff dressed in reflective orange shirts directed cars down a narrow cobblestone road. Lars pulled into a large open field which gave unobstructed views of the Pacific. With the sun sinking into the horizon, the pinkish hues lit up the sky.

Braelynn steeled her nerves as they slowed to a stop. She took a deep breath, unaware of the valet opening her door.

“You’re going to be okay,” Lars told her.

“Are you sure this is a good idea, bringing me around your friends?” she asked, her hands clutching the edge of the seat.

“You’re my friend.” He reached for Braelynn, brushing his fingers along her inner wrist until his hand joined hers.

“So you’ve told me.” Braelynn’s stomach clenched at the ‘f’ word.

“Hey.” He smiled, bringing her palm to his lips. “You’re never going to forget tonight. I promise. Wait here.” Lars released her, and gave a seductive wink before exiting the car.

Braelynn returned his smile, his kiss branded on her skin. Her stomach flipped as he rounded the car, shooing the attendant away. She reached to accept his hand, carefully stepping onto the uneven walkway. Despite the flurry of activity around her, she couldn’t take her eyes off him. He commanded not just her attention but that of all those around him. She heard his name being called from afar but he ignored it as he pinned her with his gaze.

“Ready to have some fun?”

Yes, I’d do anything with you.The words lingered on her tongue but she’d already revealed too many feelings, ones he’d never return. Instead she smiled and nodded.

“Say yes,” he whispered, his voice low and demanding.

“Yes.” Braelynn gasped as he put his arm around her waist and drew her to him.

Arousal flooded between her legs as his lips took hers. His tongue swept into her mouth, stealing her breath, reminding her that he could have anything he wanted, whenever he wanted and she’d give it to him. He deepened the kiss and she moaned as his hand found her breast. Having lost touch with space and time, Braelynn gave herself to Lars.

Laughter resounded across the yard, reminding her that they weren’t alone. What the hell had he done to her that she’d stop everything and make out with a man in public? Although the rational thought had merit, she still moaned in protest as he ended the kiss. Her knees weakened from emotion, she clutched at his shirt.

“I’m starting to reconsider bringing you here,” he growled.

“Um…what?” Braelynn’s eyes fluttered open, and she caught sight of his sly smile. He leaned into her, brushing his lips over her ear.

“Part of me wants to keep you all for myself. I want you so much.”

“We could go home, get back in bed,” Braelynn suggested.

“I won’t make it very long, my little fox. I might take you tonight…here.”

“Here?” Braelynn’s heart sped at his words, the haze of their kiss clearing.

“That’s right. You like to be watched?”

“I’m sorry…what?” she began. Was this a trick question? Did he really think he was going to have sex with her at a party? “I don’t know if…”

“I’m so goddamned hard, I could bend you over the car and fuck you right now.”

“Lars.” She laughed off his proposition, yet the ache between her legs didn’t lie. She couldn’t be sure if he was serious but the thought of an audience made her wet.

“But good things come to those who wait. And now…it’s time for introductions.” Lars kissed her cheek and took her by the hand.

Braelynn took in the sight of the enormous white tent that sat adjacent to the bluff. Intertwined branches arched into a magical entrance which greeted partygoers. Illuminated crystal garlands dangled from its ceiling, and dusk came alive with its sparkling lights. Streams of gleaming organza hung from the entryway, its lustrous fabric serving as the gatekeeper to festivities.